Name__________________________________

Graphing Variables

Purpose: To practice placing variables on a graph correctly

Background Information: Variables are traditionally plotted on graphs in a specific way. The INDEPENDENT VARIABLE is
plotted along the X-AXIS. The DEPENDENT VARIABLE is plotted along the Y-AXIS. It does not matter what type of graph
is being used to show the data (bar, line, scatter plot)

Problem: To identify and graph variables in an investigation

Materials:

Pencil Rubber band Paper clip Ruler Washers Masking tape

Procedure:
1. Tape the pencil to your desk so that it hangs over the edge.
2. Attach the paper clip to the rubber band, open one end of the paper clip to make a “hook” for the washers.
3. Hang the rubber band over the end of the pencil.
4. Measure the length of the rubber band in cm. Record this data.
5. Place 1 washer on the paper clip “hook”.
6. Measure and record the length of the rubber band again.
7. Continue adding washers, one washer at a time, and measuring the rubber band until a total of 10 washers have
been added.
8. Record your data each time.

Data:

Number of washers effect on the stretch of a rubber band (cm)

Number of
Length of Rubber Band (cm)
Washers
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Graph the data:

1. Identify the independent variable _______________________________________________
2. Identify the dependent variable _________________________________________________
3. Identify the X-axis on the graph. Label it.
4. Identify the Y-axis on the graph. Label it.

TITLE ______________________________________________________________

General IV Label ________________________________________________

_____-axis
_____-axis